The Beyond Groundbreaking launch for Therme Manchester, held on Friday 12^th September, brought together politicians, partners and the community to celebrate the start of construction on the UK’s first city-based wellbeing resort.

Speaking at the event, Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme Group UK, said: “Today marks the official beginning of a once-in-a-generation project for Manchester and the North West. Therme Manchester will be a place for everyone: a unique destination where wellbeing, sustainability, art and culture come together.

“Our vision is to make a lasting positive impact: creating jobs, supporting communities and helping people live healthier, happier lives for years to come.

“We expect about 2 million people to visit each year so it will be one of the largest tourist-based attractions in the UK, but at its heart it’s about the community, building social value and helping people in terms of wellbeing and health.”

Professor Russell invited the assembled 200 plus guests to close their eyes , as he visualised how the site would look and feel on opening, adding : “That oasis will be right where you’re sat now.”

Guests marked the moment by breaking Eccles cakes together waving bright orange sustainable 3D-PLA printed spades as Sir Robert McAlpine’s diggers moved into position.

Neil Martin, Chief Executive of contractors Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “This is a project that aligns with our commitment to sustainability, technical excellence and making a meaningful difference to communities. We look forward to delivering a destination that will transform wellbeing and benefit TraffordCity and the wider region for generations to come.”

Stelian Iacob, Senior Vice President of Therme Group said: “Ian Brown said Manchester has everything but a beach, well what if we can bring that beach into the heart of the city? What if wellbeing could be woven into life, not as an escape but as a part of everyday living? Wellbeing should be in reach of everyone.”

Work will be undertaken to improve access to the Bridgewater Canal, including enhanced cycle paths and walkways that will directly connect Therme Manchester to surrounding communities. There will  be restaurants, cafes and pool bars serving fresh, healthy and affordable food and drink.

Therme Manchester will combine innovative architecture with nature, sustainable technology and world-class amenities to create an accessible destination reflecting the community in which we operate. Once open, the resort will offer indoor and outdoor pools, water-based activities, thermal bathing, spa treatments, wellbeing therapies and botanical gardens under sustainably designed glass pavilions.

It will also provide cultural and educational programming, ensuring its role as a vital community asset. Therme Manchester will provide a huge employment boost to the region with 2,500 construction jobs, a peak onsite workforce of 1,200 and 650 permanent roles once open.